Today marks the centennial birthday of Woody Guthrie. The man wrote some of the most direct and eloquent songs concerning our country: he spoke out against our gross failures and social injustices, and stood up for America's most marginalized people, while also celebrating the intense beauty and richness of our unique heritage. Unfortunately not everyone listened, and to this day I think many folks could stand to give a good hard listen to Guthrie's songs and ideas.

8 comments:

Ah, Woody! Another great Oklahoman :) There's a big festival going on (they have it every year, but this is his 100th birthday, so its extra special) down in Okemah, Ok this weekend. I do indeed think he, and another Oklahoman Will Rogers are still really relevant with their music and words today...especially today!

I must read up on Mr. Guthrie. I do know he wrote the song "Roll on, Columbia, roll on" about the mighty Columbia River. I live in the small town that is the headwaters of this river and the locals have never heard of this great song. Gotta change that!

N.B.

✯ All photographs are taken by me, and all words are written by me, unless otherwise noted. If you'd like to share my original material, that's O.K., but please use proper citations (ie, link back to my original post). Thank you. ✯